Omron vs calipers

[bacardio]

I asked the questions in a couple other threads, but thought I would group all these questions together and add some more.

First, what is the difference between the Omron HBF-306 and the HBF-306C or are they actually the same product?
Amazon.com: HBF-306

Second, is the Omron a viable option to calipers for tracking progress, if you have no experience with calipers or should I just get calipers, such as these, that others have talked about:

Bodybuilding.com - AccuFitness FatTrack II Digital Body Fat Caliper - With Free MyoTape! On sale now!

Lastly, what is the difference between the Tanita scales and the Omron devices? They both use electro-resistance measuring. If the Tanita scales suck is it because they use different calculations internally to come up with the BF% readings or is it because one is hand-held, which will measure upper-body statistics and the scale measures the lower body?

Thanks

[rookie]

I am going to give you a blanket answer. Every testing method has a margin of error. Calipers can be better in the hands of someone properly trained but still not always accurate. The Omron can vary its readings simmply how you hold it. However they are all good for gauging progress. As long as you use them under the same conditions at each try you will get a good reading to gauge progress from even if it is not 100% accurate.

Also, I have the Omron handheld.

[liftintexas]

I agree that tracking and comparing your progress points is the most helpful tool. I will say that I cannot get my Tanita scale to even give a consistent reading (I doubt my body fat changes daily by 3-4%).

I have heard (and believe from experience) that both Tanita scales and Omron devices read slightly higher than you get on a caliper reading.